Airbus unveils plane of the future

Airbus has unveiled a prototype transparent aircraft it suggests could come into operation by 2050.

In the latest example of blue-sky thinking from the European aviation giant, Airbus revealed it was also exploring aircraft with ‘intelligent’ cabin wall membranes and interactive games.

The new aircraft structure would allow for walls which control air temperature and can become transparent to give passengers open, panoramic views.

Holographic pop-up gaming displays and in-flight entertainment powered by the heat of passengers’ bodies are also on the agenda for Airbus.

At a launch in London, Airbus engineering executive vice-president, Charles Champion, said: “Our research shows passengers of 2050 will expect a seamless travel experience while also caring for the environment.

“The concept cabin is designed with this in mind, and shows the journey can be as much a voyage of discovery as the destination.”

The new planes would see an end to the regulated class divisions of First, Business and Economy, replaced by personalised zones that offer flexible, tailored levels of relaxation, interactivity and working spaces.